After a disappointing first-round exit last year, the Denver Nuggets look to be serious contenders this year. Here’s a look at Nuggets’ offseason moves so far, including trades, signings and new free agents.
Nikola Jokic has led the Denver Nuggets in recent years, and the most significant move made by the Nuggets has been re-signing him. The “Joker” signed a five-year, $264 supermax extension with the Nuggets this past July.
The 41st draft pick has elevated his play to an elite level, earning two NBA MVP awards. Last season, he averaged a dominant 27.1 points per game, 13.8 rebounds per game, and 6.2 assists per game. He did this efficiently, with an effective shooting percentage of 58%. The Serbian star now holds the record for the largest contract in NBA history. It’s clear that he’ll be an integral piece of the Nuggets’ roster in coming years.
The Nuggets add two main players from trades: Kentavious “KCP” Caldwell-Pope and Ish Smith. They give up Will Barton and Monte Morris to do so, but this trade looks as if it will benefit their roster. While Barton and Morris combined for an average of 27.3 points per game last year, Caldwell-Pope and Smith add different benefits to the Nuggets. Caldwell-Pope and Smith both come from the Washington Wizards, where they combined for 21.8 points per game. Caldwell-Pope and Smith, however, are NBA veterans, being 29 and 34 years old, respectively. Additionally, “KCP” is a defense-minded player, and his three-and-D style of play can be utilized by Jokic’s passing ability. Overall, these acquisitions bring experience and defense to the Nuggets.
The Nuggets have signed many free agents this year, with the notable one being DeAndre Jordan. Though the 2017 All-Star averaged only 4.6 points per game last season with the Philadelphia 76ers, he brings a veteran’s perspective to the team.
The Nuggets also add Bruce Brown from the Brooklyn Nets. The 26-year-old notched 9 points per game last year, and looks to add to the Nuggets’ offense. Other free agent additions include Adonis Arms, Kellan Grady, Collin Gillespie, Jack White, and Justin Tillman.
Overall, the Nuggets have improved their roster this offseason. With the significant re-signing of Jokic, they have a leader. With Ish Smith and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, they add defensive prowess. With their free agent signings, they add bench scoring, veterans, and youth to the squad. It looks like the Nuggets can be contenders this year, and possibly seek their first-ever franchise championship.
Stay tuned for more breaking NBA content, including preseason moves, contract updates and more news from every team.
Featured image courtesy of David Berding/Getty Images
You can “Like” The Game Haus on Facebook and “Follow” us on Twitter for more sports and esports articles from other great TGH writers along with Avyay!
“From Our Haus to Yours“
